Memories of Ferry Building clock

I was very pleased to read all about the Ferry Building clock tower in the Datebook section (Chronicle Classic, Feb. 24) because it brought back fond memories.

I started working a few blocks up Market Street, at PG&E, in 1951. While there, I got in the habit of spending my lunch breaks, on balmy days, at the park below the tower. But I'll never forget when the tower started playing music at noon to keep us entertained. It was music of all kinds, but the one I really enjoyed was the one that was played on every anniversary of the '06 earthquake and fire. It was "Oh, Foolish Fay," from Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta "Iolanthe," in which the fairy queen sings about her wish that Capt. Shaw, the leader of the London fire brigade, would turn his hose on her to douse the flames of love in her heart. Obviously, a tribute to the gallant members of our San Francisco Fire Department. I haven't been back there since I retired in '87, but I certainly hope they're still carrying on the tradition.

George Lenfestey

Moraga

Ballet ignores gay love

Editor - In 2006 you published my letter about the lack of gay-themed love affairs portrayed by the San Francisco Ballet. After the letter was published I tried to get an appointment to see His Highness Helgi Tomasson, the artistic director, to no avail. I picketed the Ballet administration building, distributing copies of the letter, to no avail. And I leafleted several performances, to no avail. Still, the San Francisco Ballet has not been brave enough to portray same-sex love and passion in a ballet. I find it hard to celebrate the 75th anniversary of an institution so insensitive to a large part of its clientele. I have not attended a performance of that company since 2006 and have felt no loss.

This operagoer appreciates big screen

Editor - In contrast to the writer who dislikes the balcony screens at San Francisco Opera, I think they are terrific, as do those sitting on either side of me in the second row of the balcony (Letters, Feb. 24). I love seeing the faces and expressions of the singers, as well as benefiting from the fine acoustics. I can also take in the whole stage picture.

On the other hand, I am disappointed that none of the San Francisco operas will be shown in Bay Area movie theaters. The Met managed to present four last season in Emeryville at one of the Regal Entertainment Group's theaters. Perhaps it is not an acoustical issue but a financial one.